Divide and Conquer

But from all reports that I've read and watched, I love what's going on at Heat training camp.

Great Hand

Here's the thing, I think it's pretty hard to mess up the hand that Erik Spoelstra has been dealt.

In terms of training camp, he has a group that is already bonded.

They are already friends.

They already have the "us against the world" mentality.

And most importantly, they're probably the most talented team in the NBA.

Gotta Keep Em Separated

There are a few moves that have been made that are worth mentioning.

First of all, let's talk hoops.

I love that Spo is having LeBron and Wade work on separate teams.

There's a multitude of reasons.

First of all, those guys are crazy competitive with each other.

I was at the game last year, where Wade and LeBron went off in the 2nd quarter. Probably the highest level of basketball I've ever seen in person.

That competitive spirit is good for a team.

Guys on their team, won't want to ruin it.

Then, you get the batting donut effect.

Let them earn the right to play together.

So when they finally do, it will be SO much easier.

Who's tougher to defend or be defended by than LeBron or Dwyane? (Kobe notwithstanding).

Getting Defensive

The Heat's first few practices, they weren't running offensive plays.

Good plan.

This will be a strong offensive team.

They'll run such complex plays as: Give the ball to Dwyane, or hand it to LeBron or the ever-confusing, dump it down to Bosh.

This team can sleep-walk to 115 points on most nights.

The question will be: In the Eastern Conference Finals, can they stop Boston? In the Finals, will they be able to slow down Oklahoma City (thought I was going to say the Lakers didn't you--- I was just making sure you're paying attention).

USA, USA, USA

Pat Riley's dedication to the men and woman who serve this country is real.

I've watched it first-hand.

Before every Heat game, everyone in the building rises to salute someone who has served.

As such, putting camp on an Air Force Base isn't a cheap publicity ploy.

Sure, it may buy the team a little time away from the crazy press.

But still, I don't question the sincerity of the move, or the positive outcome of the decision.

Doesn't Count Yet

Doing the right things, saying the right things, all well and good.

They say you should enjoy the journey.

Enjoy the process.

Sorry, that just doesn't fly with the 2010-2011 Heat.

As excited as I am about what they did in September, it's only worth something if it translates in June.

Copyright 2011 by Post-Newsweek Stations.
All rights reserved. This material may
not be published, broadcast, rewritten
or redistributed

Comments

The views expressed are not those of this company or its affiliated companies. Please note by clicking on "Post" you acknowledge that you have read the Terms Of Service and the comment you are posting is in compliance with such terms.